1997 - 2001 Lexus ES 300 Pre-Owned Review

I remember particularly liking the large dials comprising the analog gauge cluster, well laid out, easily legible day

The ES 300 grew 50 mm (2.0 in) in its wheelbase, increasing ride quality and rear seat legroom. (Photo: Lexus)

or night, and aesthetically pleasing. The car is also extremely easy to see out of in all directions, due to a greater proportion of glass when compared to the older model visibility. Interestingly, a protective coating was added to the windows reportedly capable of shielding occupants from up to 90 percent of ultraviolet rays. Also improved was where Lexus also put the pop-out cupholders further back in the center console to be out of the way of the shifter, improving usability.

The ES 300's seats were extremely comfortable, yet supportive enough to hold driver and front passenger in place during light-duty performance driving. And to that end car did reasonably well, with the biggest improvement coming from the unibody's 30 percent increase in structural rigidity. Its added strength allowed for a more refined suspension setup without compromising handling, despite a 50 mm (2.0 in) increase in its wheelbase. That

Thanks to a 30 percent stiffer frame, the new ES was quieter inside than the outgoing model too. (Photo: Lexus)

added length was a bonus when it came to its ride too, as longer wheelbase cars inherently soak up bumps better than short-wheelbase models. Of course, the extra inches improved rear seat legroom to what are merely adequate levels. Those stuck in the back won't be overly compromised, but the following generation ES that is being sold new today takes care of taller rear passengers better.

The new ES was quieter inside than the outgoing model too, again attributable to the stiffer structure. That bodyshell also improved its crash worthiness from all angles, allowing it to achieve safety standards which were upgraded toward the end of the '90s.